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Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 31 - Verse 20

31:20
For when I shall have brought them into the land which I sware unto their fathers, that floweth with milk and honey; and they shall have eaten and filled themselves, and waxen fat; then will they turn unto other gods, and serve them, and provoke me, and break my covenant.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Deuteronomy in the Bible describes the warnings and consequences that God gave to the Israelites. God promises to bring them to a land of abundance, flowing with milk and honey, the land He swore to their ancestors. However, He also warns them that once they have eaten their fill and grown prosperous, they will be tempted to turn away from Him and worship other gods. This act of turning away from God, breaking the covenant they made with Him, would provoke His anger. The verse serves as a reminder that material prosperity can lead to spiritual downfall if one becomes complacent and forgets to remain faithful to God. The Israelites were warned of the consequences of forsaking God and worshipping false idols. It emphasizes the importance of remaining steadfast in faith and not letting worldly possessions or desires come between our relationship with God.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the theme of the fickleness of human nature and the tendency of people to turn away from God when they are prosperous and comfortable. The reference to the promised land flowing with milk and honey symbolizes abundance and prosperity. The verse emphasizes that material blessings can lead people to become complacent and forgetful of their dependence on God. The act of turning to other gods and breaking the covenant with God is seen as a betrayal and a rejection of the relationship between God and His people. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of idolatry and the consequences of forsaking the true God for false idols. This verse also underscores the importance of remaining faithful to God even in times of abundance and success, as true devotion and loyalty should not be contingent on favorable circumstances.

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